Neuroblastoma Profile 24-Hour Urine Test
Comprehensive Neuroblastoma Screening and Diagnosis
The Neuroblastoma Profile 24-Hour Urine Test represents a critical advancement in pediatric oncology diagnostics, specifically designed to detect and monitor neuroblastoma – one of the most common solid tumors in children. This sophisticated biochemical analysis provides healthcare providers with essential biomarkers that reflect the metabolic activity of neuroendocrine tumors originating from neural crest cells.
What Does the Neuroblastoma Profile Measure?
This comprehensive urine profile measures two key catecholamine metabolites that serve as reliable tumor markers for neuroblastoma:
- Vanillylmandelic Acid (VMA): The primary metabolite of epinephrine and norepinephrine, elevated levels indicate increased catecholamine production by tumor cells
- Homovanillic Acid (HVA): The major metabolite of dopamine, providing additional diagnostic information about tumor activity and differentiation
Who Should Consider This Test?
This diagnostic profile is recommended for children and individuals presenting with symptoms suggestive of neuroblastoma, including:
- Unexplained abdominal mass or swelling
- Bone pain or limping without trauma
- Proptosis (bulging eyes) or periorbital bruising
- Unexplained fever, weight loss, or fatigue
- High blood pressure in pediatric patients
- Opsoclonus-myoclonus syndrome (dancing eye syndrome)
- Patients with family history of neuroblastoma or genetic predisposition
- Monitoring treatment response in diagnosed neuroblastoma cases
Clinical Benefits of Neuroblastoma Testing
Early detection through the Neuroblastoma Profile offers numerous clinical advantages:
- Early Diagnosis: Identifies neuroblastoma at earlier stages when treatment is most effective
- Non-Invasive Procedure: Utilizes urine collection rather than invasive tissue sampling
- Treatment Monitoring: Tracks disease progression and treatment response over time
- Prognostic Information: Biomarker levels correlate with disease severity and outcomes
- Risk Stratification: Helps determine appropriate treatment intensity based on biomarker profiles
Understanding Your Test Results
Your test results will provide quantitative measurements of VMA and HVA levels. Interpretation should always be done by a qualified healthcare provider, but general guidance includes:
- Normal Levels: Indicate no current evidence of neuroblastoma activity
- Elevated VMA/HVA: Suggests possible neuroblastoma requiring further investigation
- High Ratios: Specific VMA/HVA ratios may indicate tumor differentiation status
- Serial Monitoring: Changes in levels over time provide crucial treatment response data
Test Methodology and Technology
Our Neuroblastoma Profile utilizes High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), the gold standard for catecholamine metabolite analysis. This advanced technology ensures:
- High sensitivity and specificity for biomarker detection
- Precise quantitative measurements
- Minimal interference from other urine components
- Reliable and reproducible results
Sample Collection Requirements
Proper specimen collection is essential for accurate results:
- Collection Period: 24-hour urine collection
- Volume: 50 mL aliquot (minimum 10 mL) from total 24-hour collection
- Preservation: Use appropriate volume of 50% HCl to maintain pH between 1-2
- Shipping: Refrigerated or frozen transport
- Documentation: Record 24-hour volume on test request form and container
Pre-Test Preparation Guidelines
For optimal test accuracy, patients should strictly avoid the following for at least 72 hours before and during specimen collection:
- L-Dopa medications
- Theophylline-containing products
- Chocolate, vanilla, and banana
- Alcoholic beverages
- Tea and coffee
- Tobacco products
- Strenuous exercise
Test Pricing Information
| Test Name | Discount Price | Regular Price |
|---|---|---|
| Neuroblastoma Profile 24-Hour Urine Test | $212 USD | $300 USD |
Turnaround Time and Reporting
Our efficient testing process ensures timely results:
- Sample Submission: Wednesday or Saturday by 9 AM
- Report Delivery: Friday or Tuesday respectively
- Methodology: High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC)
- Department: HPLC Laboratory
Nationwide Accessibility
GGC DNA maintains testing facilities across the United States, with convenient locations in major metropolitan areas including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, Phoenix, Philadelphia, San Antonio, San Diego, Dallas, San Jose, and many other cities. Our nationwide network ensures accessible neuroblastoma testing for patients throughout the country.
Take Action for Early Detection
Early detection of neuroblastoma can significantly impact treatment outcomes and survival rates. If you suspect neuroblastoma symptoms in your child or require monitoring for an existing diagnosis, don’t delay testing. Our specialized oncology team is ready to assist you with comprehensive diagnostic services.
Book your Neuroblastoma Profile 24-Hour Urine Test today by calling our dedicated healthcare line at +1(267) 388-9828 or schedule your appointment online. Early detection saves lives – take the first step toward comprehensive cancer screening now.
